The Florida Public Service Commission is touting ways to save energy and keep some extra cash in your pocket.

On Tuesday, the commission put the spotlight on Energy Star ratings for washers, dryers, refrigerators and freezers as part of National Consumer Protection Week.

Energy Star appliances include a yellow sticker with details about energy use and the projected annual operating cost.

Today's Energy Star refrigerators and freezers use about 20 percent of the energy that it takes to operate a 10-year-old model. The same is true for Energy Star dishwashers. They use about three gallons of water. Older models use 15 gallons or more.

Public Service Commission Chairman Ronald Brise said you may pay more upfront for an Energy Star appliance, but will save more over the long term.

"Energy Star appliances use less electricity and water even exceeding the federal minimum standards for efficiency and quality because they are made with technologically advanced, high-quality materials."

State Rep. Alan Williams joined the effort to encourage Floridians to think more about how they can save energy.

"Every time we save on consumed energy, that's one less power plant that needs to be built. When we build one less power plant, that's more natural resources such as water and other things that our children and future generations will benefit from."

National Consumer Protection Week is next week. PSC staffers will take their energy-saving message on the road with presentations in Pembroke Pines, Hollywood, Orlando, Kissimmee, Sanford and Belle Glade.